Rojek’s 2026 has gotten off to a rough start.

On New Year’s Eve, while working his shift at River Ranch, everyone's favorite bartender was suddenly overcome with intense abdominal pain. It was so severe he couldn’t drive himself home. By the next day, the pain had only worsened. He began vomiting black and experiencing severe digestive troubles. On Friday morning, even with his unusually high tolerance for pain, he was screaming in agony. I brought him to the ER, where the pain medication barely helped and doctors immediately started him on IVs, antibiotics, and other treatments.

By early Saturday morning, Rojek was rushed into emergency surgery. Doctors discovered he was suffering from a severe case of perforated diverticulitis—a life-threatening infection. His body is still fighting the infection, and he currently has four drains running from his abdomen to external pumps. His entire digestive system has been shut down to allow his colon a chance to heal, which is contributing to his ongoing pain and discomfort.

So far, he has already undergone two surgeries, with more likely ahead. Despite pain medication and sleep aids, he is only able to rest in short stretches. He will not be able to eat or drink anything by mouth for at least the next four weeks and must remain hospitalized during that time, possibly even longer.

Because this is going to be such a long and difficult recovery, doctors don't even know when he’ll be able to leave the hospital or return to work,we created this fundraiser to help cover his medical bills and everyday living expenses while he is unable to work.

If you know Rojek you know he is a friend to all and is truly one of the best people to ever grace our planet. While we’re so grateful for the love and support he’s already received, the last thing we want is for him to worry about finances while he’s fighting to heal. It’s been a very hard start to the year, and we just want to do everything we can to help him get through this and back to the community he loves so much.

Thank you to everyone who has reached out—we’ve felt every bit of your kindness and support.